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Space Travel Alters Human Vascular Cell Function: Study
Space Travel Alters Human Vascular Cell Function: Study

Space Travel Alters Human Vascular Cell Function: Study

London, 1 Apr (ONA) --- A recent study in NPJ Microgravity explores how space travel affects human vascular smooth muscle cells, crucial for astronaut health.

Microgravity and radiation pose challenges, triggering cellular changes. Researchers analyzed cells cultured in microgravity and on the ISS.

They found significant gene expression changes, with 43% upregulated and 57% downregulated genes, affecting pathways like STAT3 and NF-κB.

Notably, 22 cardiovascular signaling pathways were identified, with three inhibited.

Despite some cellular processes remaining unchanged during short-term spaceflight, longer exposure may prompt adaptation.

Further research is needed to understand these mechanisms fully, crucial for future space missions and astronaut well-being.

---Ends/Thuraiya/Anas